Favorite fall destinations include Montalvo, Filoli Gardens, and Golden Gate Park

Fall is on its way in and now is the perfect time to pack a picnic and the kids, and head out for some outdoor fun and great seasonal pictures! The Bay Area is known for its redwoods and other giants, but that doesn’t mean we don’t get to see the yellow, red, and orange hues of autumn. Keep an eye on the California Fall Color Map and our list of spots from Napa to the South Bay to know where to find fall colors and roll in some leaves.

San Francisco

Ajay Anthony

The SF Botanical Garden offers an array of colors in the fall, with golden-fanned ginkgo trees, deep purple vine maples, and the Persian ironwood tree with leaves that take on a spectacular rainbow of shades at this time of the year. Be sure to check out the garden’s Facebook page for updates on changing leaf colors.

The Moon Viewing garden with its Japanese Maples is a great spot for a picnic. Or, walk to one of the many kid-friendly restaurants around 9th Ave in the Sunset District.

Showy maples can be found across the street in another park gem, the Japanese Tea Garden. While you take in the autumn scene, the kids can have fun challenging themselves by walking up and down the famous drum bridge and finding their fortune in a cookie at the tea house.

And don't forget to book your tickets on the Golden Gate Park’s Music Concourse, Skystar Wheel. Each gondola can seat up to 6 and you can see the changing colors for miles.

Related: What’s New and Open in Golden Gate Park

East Bay

boy on a man's shoulders walking through fall leaves
istock

The Oakland Zoo's gondola is the place to be this fall when the leaves start changing color. Where else can you get a bird's eye view of the zoo and surrounding landscape? During your visit, take the opportunity to view the California Trail exhibit, where you can see grizzly bears, bald eagles, California condors, gray wolves, mountain lions, and even jaguars.

Up in the hills above Berkeley, Tilden Park is another go-to place for fall color. Stroll through the Botanic Garden to find changing colors, or hike around Lake Anza. Keep your eye out (not your hands, please!) for the flaming red leaves of poison oak, which add some of the most striking colors to the park. In November and December, head downhill to the UC Berkeley campus, when it’s ablaze with lemon-yellow ginkgo leaves; maples and myrtles add some flair. 

Slip through the Caldecott tunnel to find canopies of yellow leaves in and around the trees of Orinda‘s Community Center Park (perfect for making piles and kicking) and along Camino Pablo. 

Another great East Bay spot is the Sunol Regional Wilderness which welcomes a kaleidoscope of color as soon as you hit the visitor's center. Find out if they are offering any naturalist-led hikes while you are there or head out on your own. The Indian Joe Creek Nature Trail is a short, self-guided walk that provides loads of information about the park, its animal inhabitants, and the foliage there.

The Ardenwood Historic Farm in Fremont is another great spot for leaf peeping. Make sure to check out their Naturalist Program page for a variety of seasonal activities including apple cider pressing. 

Peninsula/South Bay

person hiking through park in the fall
Aaron Burden/Unsplash

Driving along Skyline Boulevard as it dips, rises, and weaves through the Peninsula can be visually rewarding on its own, as you pass by stands of sycamores and big-leaf maples. But 5-point harnesses can only contain kid energy for so long. Happily, there are 26 open space preserves in the mid-peninsula region, offering easy hikes, picnic spots, and stunning views. Mount Umunhum offers breathtaking views on non-foggy days. In the Santa Cruz mountains, the Sanborn County Park offers shaded and picturesque trails. And while there, you might catch sight of wild turkey and deer. 

A favorite at this time of year is the Rancho San Antonio Preserve, with its maples, oaks, and flowering persimmon trees. Make sure to visit Deer Hollow Farm for self-guided tours to see cows, chickens, and other farm animals, historical buildings, and a barnyard. 

While you're in the neighborhood, a side trip to Los Altos is worthwhile to see the Chinese Pistache trees (donated to the city by Los Altos Nursery in the 1950s) dropping their vivid orange and red leaves on Main and 2nd streets. 

For a view of the whole valley, head to Montalvo in Saratoga and follow the Lookout Trail to Lookout Point. On a clear day, you can see all the way to the bay. Walk through the grounds on your way down to see some rare trees like the ginkgo tree that turns a glorious gold in the fall.

Woodside is home to the Filoli Gardens and fall is a great time to plan a visit there. Fruit trees abound at Filoli, including pears, plums, apricots, and apples. Check their website before you go to see what colors you can expect.

Marin

A great spot to find that heady mix of fall colors and evergreens is Samuel P. Taylor State Park, with its oaks, firs, and old-growth redwoods. Throw the bikes on the rack, and take a Sunday drive along bucolic Sir Francis Drake Boulevard to the park entrance, 15 miles west of San Rafael. Samuel P. Taylor boasts a few great trails for biking and hiking safely with kids, especially the dog-friendly (and relatively flat) Cross Marin Trail that winds alongside Lagunitas Creek. Pack a picnic basket and enjoy a relaxing lunch at the Azalea Picnic Area to complete the day. Or better yet, pitch a tent and stay a while.

Head south for an hour and you will hit Baltimore Canyon Open Space Preserve, home to redwood, oak, maples, and other deciduous trees. Kids will enjoy some creek romping while they search for the red, orange, and yellow leaves that blanket the floor. Adventurous hikers should make Dawn Falls their destination.

Wine Country

Napa Valley Wine Train

Crush season in the Sonoma Wine Country and Napa Valley is a not-to-be-missed sight, as the rolling green hills of grape vines turn to blankets of burgundy and orange. 

It is a great time to visit Bothe-Napa Valley State Park, where the cooler fall temps make the park's wooded trails ripe for exploration. In addition to its namesake trees, the peaceful scene on the Redwood Trail includes autumn-gold maple leaves fluttering down alongside Ritchey Creek. Rent a bike from one of the numerous outfits around town and try your luck at Napa's Bikes and Sights Scavenger HuntTake in extraordinary views of the county and vineyards at the North Sonoma Mountain Regional Park and Open Space Reserve. Big leaf maples and oak woodlands can be found at Spring Lake Regional Park in Sonoma County, and the kids might enjoy riding their bikes or boating on the lake. 

Related: The Family Guide to Wine Country

Lions and tigers and… cars? If seeing the zoo on foot doesn’t cut it for your animal-loving brood, there are plenty of immersive animal experiences that’ll give you the feeling of an authentic wildlife safari park from the comfort of your (or someone else’s) car. Whether you want to gaze at giraffes from a double-decker safari truck or see the wild from the comfort of your own front seat, here are the best safari park experiences in the U.S.

Safari West - Santa Rosa, CA

Safari West

While a three-hour tour through the Sonoma wine country usually conjures up visions of gorgeous grapes ripening on the vine, Safari West will have you rethinking those expectations. Here, you'll board a double-decker safari truck and log some serious face time with zebras, giraffes, water buffalo and any number of the other 800 animals that call this preserve home.  Expect learning to happen, too. Safari West guides love actively engaging guests, promoting conservation and education efforts on their tours, as they expertly weave the open-air jeep in for a closer look. When tummies rumble, belly up to the Savannah Cafe that overlooks the park; the authentic food, beautiful scenery and grown-up grape juice from the region hit the spot after a long safari.

Wildest Extra: Want to make a weekend out of it? Spend the night in one of Safari West's 30 authentic African safari tents, with polished hardwood floors, en-suite bathrooms (with hot showers and real toilets), hand-hewn furniture, and ultra-plush linens atop comfortable beds.   

Online: safariwest.com

San Diego Zoo Safari Park - Escondido, CA

San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance

The San Diego Wild Animal Park (a branch of the San Diego Zoo) has everything a zoo has to offer, with a plethora of ways to see it all. Rather than keeping animals in small cages, this place opts to let the animals roam free—and puts the people in various vehicles to go out and see them. Families can commune with exotic wildlife from golf carts, African trams, zip lines, behind-the-scenes truck tours, or, even in a hot air balloon for a spectacular bird’s eye view of it all. Add in a ropes course for adventurers as young as seven, and you could spend days taking it all in. But at the heart of this animal wonderland is a mission to save the critters of the world, with its researchers and activists leading conservation efforts in 45 countries, with 380 partners in its conservation work, five conservation field stations and 200 conservation scientists working in the field or the lab, according to this article

Wildest Extra: Want to really wow your wildlife-loving kiddos? Opt for an overnight in an authentic safari tent. At the Wild Animal Park's "Roar and Snore" overnights, you'll get a nighttime tour of the zoo (with up-close animal encounters), then fall asleep to the sounds of lions' roars in the distance.

Online: sdzsafaripark.org

Virginia Safari Park - Natural Bridge, VA

Gas up the family wagon and grab a bucket of tasty grains for the “locals” at the gate before taking off along the three-mile paved drive through this natural animal habitat. Expect a few delighted shrieks from the littles as ostriches, llamas and zebras poke their heads through the windows to say hello and help themselves to tasty treats. When you’re done with the drive, be sure to check out the Village Walk-Thru where the kidlets can spend some QT with potbellied pigs, chickens and goats and more. Let the good times roll!

Wildest Extra: For an added fee, you can feed giraffes from a special platform, get up close and personal with the penguins or feed and pet the rhinos—all while learning how zookeepers take care of the animals and how the Safari Park is helping the animals in the wild. 

Online: virginiasafaripark.com

Hidden Valley Animal Adventure - Varysburg, NY

What’s not to love about a family-owned and operated animal park where it’s all about the beauty of the land and the animals that make their home there? Drive your car or hop on the bus to get a rolling tour of this bucolic oasis. Little rangers can be on the lookout for llamas, bison and ostriches, all of whom may cautiously approach the tiny outstretched hands looking to feed and interact with them. It’s a ring-side seat your sidekick won’t soon forget. Add in dinner at the Trailside Grill and you’ve got the whole day planned. The park opens in May and runs through October before closing for the winter.

Wildest Extra: Winter sleigh rides through the lower park make for a magical, snowy, family-friendly outing. Sleigh bells ring!

Online: hiddenvalleyadventure.com

Northwest Trek - Eatonville, WA

Katie Cotterill/ Northwest Trek Wildlife Park

With a focus on preserving and encouraging the repopulation of native Northwest wildlife, this sanctuary, just 60 miles south of Seattle, is a surprisingly perfect place to be on a rainy day. In the true spirit of the Pacific Northwest, the bison, elk and bighorn sheep (and moose, if you can spot one) are a little less camera shy when it’s overcast and drizzling. The park's all-new "Wild Drive" premier tour lets you drive your own car through the Trek's Free-Roaming, where you'll cruise by herds of Roosevelt elk, bison, moose, caribou, bighorn sheep, mountain goats, swan and deer.

After that, stretch your legs on the Animal Walking Paths as you check out grizzlies, cougars and more. Kids will love the "Kids Trek," a nature-inspired playground with ropes, slides, sand, cabins and a massive “tree trunk" to climb. Up for a hike? Access to more than five miles of paved and primitive walking trails is included in admission. 

Wildest Extra:  Don't miss Eagle Passage, an immersive experience that allows visitors to see majestic bald eagles close up while giving the rescued birds—all of whom have some degree of long-term wing injury—a safe passage between habitat sections. 

Online: nwtrek.org 

Bearizona Wildlife Park - Williams, AZ

Stewart Deats/ Bearizona

Drive your car on a three-mile gravel trail to see some of our country's most popular wild natives, including bison, black bears and wolves. When you're ready to stretch your legs, the winding walk-through, Fort Bearizona, will give you the perfect view of the park's resident jaguars, grizzly bears, and more. Craving cuddles? Creepy-crawly lovers can see bugs, spiders and nocturnal animals at the Mine Shaft Experience.

Wildest Extra:  Want a peek at the resident bears... right now? Check out the park's Grizzly Cams!

Online: bearizona.com

African Safari Wildlife Park - Port Clinton, OH

Michelle Loiselle Fulton via Facebook (used with permission)

Alpaca, bongos and camels are waiting to say hello to kids and their parents as they drive through the African Safari Wildlife Park. Cup in hand is the way they roll here. And when the drive comes to an end, be sure to check out the Walk-Thru Safari, where kidlets can come face to face with white alligators, ocelots and playful gibbons as they stroll along. In warmer months, the park brings out its giraffes for up-close encounters that let you feed these long-necked beauties a snack. 

Note: The park is closed from Dec. through Apr. Check the online calendar for details. 

Wildest Extra: Want to come face-to-tongue with a giraffe? Sign up for the 30-minute Giraffe Encounter, which lets you feed and mingle with the giraffes, Matata, Rudy, Poptart, and Harrison. 

 Online: africansafariwildlifepark.com

Wildlife Safari - Winston, OR

Wildlife Safari

Be sure to slap your “Will Break for Bison” bumper sticker to the back of your ride before driving the gang through this open-air Safari park in Oregon. Families can get up close and personal with mammals, reptiles and birds as they check out the sights and feed a few of the residents in this 600-acre park. When your little animals get restless, take a break at Safari Village, a walkable area with trains, playgrounds and a petting zoo to keep kids busy and happy. As for conservation, Wildlife Safari’s staff works hard to protect animals both internationally and domestically. They’ve helped bring over 235 cheetah cubs into the world as part of their super successful cheetah breeding program. Hooray!

Wildest Extra: Want some wine with your wild? Be sure to get tickets for the park's "Sippin' Safari," which will honor the park's 50th anniversary on July 22 with live music, wine and beer tastings, and local food trucks. 

Online: wildlifesafari.net

Lee G. Simmons Conservation Park & Wildlife Safari - Ashland, NE

The winner of USA Today's Best Safari Park two years in a row, this Nebraska wildlife park (which is owned and operated by Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo & Aquarium) lets you enjoy a four-mile, drive-through experience showcasing North American wildlife. You'll see a menagerie of animals, including American elk, bison, waterfowl, raptors and white-tailed deer. At Wolf Canyon, guests can get out of their cars to gaze at grey wolves and American black bears. After the drive, take a hike to one of the park's overlooks to view the animals from above.

Note: Due to a current Avian Influenza (HPAI) outbreak in Nebraska, the American white pelicans in the Pelican Wetlands, the sandhill cranes and trumpeter swans in Crane Meadows and the chickens at the Hands-on Corral will not be on display until further notice. The Eagle Aviary will be closed, but the eagles are still viewable to the public. The whooping cranes will be off display.

Wildest Extra: For an extra $65 per person, you can book a Backstage Experience to see the animals and their keepers up close. Experiences include a Cheetah Conservation Experience, which gives visitors a backstage look at the state-of-the-art Cheetah Conservation Breeding Facility to see and learn how keepers care for the park's 20 cheetahs; and the Tiger Conservation Experience, in which visitors will get the chance to tour and meet the tigers at the Tiger Conservation Breeding Center.  

Online: wildlifesafaripark.com

The Wilds - Cumberland, OH

Grahm S. Jones, Columbus Zoo and Aquarium

A sprawling sister property of the award-winning Columbus Zoo and Aquarium, the Wilds lets visitors get an unfettered glimpse of the animals who call this 10,000-acre park home. Here, it's the humans who go in the "cages" and the animals who get to roam free. To see the wildlife, visitors must board the park's open-air safari vehicles to see the resident rare and endangered animals roaming in their large, natural settings.  

What else? Want something extra special? Select from a variety of specialty tours to soak in The Wilds’ stunning scenery. Whether you want to float the day away during a relaxing Fishing Safari on one of nearly 100 lakes; whoosh above it all on a Zipline Tour; saddle up on a Horseback Safari through the quiet prairies; snap some Insta-worthy shots during one of the park's gorgeous Sunset Tours, or get a behind-the-scenes look at the animals with a Wildside Tour—there’s an adventure for everyone! 

Note: The Wilds is open May through Oct. 

Online: thewilds.columbuszoo.org

Lion Country Safari - Loxahatchee, FL

Courtesy of Lion Country Safari

The original drive-through safari park in the U.S. (and believed to be "the first cageless zoo in the country"), this safari spot has been serving up African game park experiences for the whole fam since 1967. It’s four miles of drive-through meetings with oryx, giraffes, rhinos, wildebeests and a whole slew of animals we’ll bet you’ve never heard of (with more than 900 total, we’re pretty confident taking that bet), each living it up in an area that replicates their natural habitat. And the lions for which the park is named? Well, they’ve got their special spot where they can’t get up to too much mischief. Ice this cake with an adjacent KOA campground where you can fall asleep listening to the nighttime sounds of the animals outside your tent, just like a real safari!

Wildest Extra: The get-up-and-move activities that are available after your car safari are awesome perks. Mini golf, a safari cruise, plenty of rides and even a splash park are all part of the day’s adventures at Safari World, the 55-acre amusement park portion of this preserve.

Online: lioncountrysafari.com

Fossil Rim - Glen Rose, TX

Born out of a desire to help dwindling animal populations, Fossil Rim found its roots and eventual footing in propagation programs for threatened and endangered species. Thirty years later, families still flock to this Texas park, where they can take their own vehicles around the 9.5-mile Scenic Drive, or get insider deets and educationally potent tidbits when they ride along on a Guided Tour. We love that The Overlook is smack dab in the middle of this drive, as it's the perfect stopping point for antsy toddlers. Get out and interact with friendly tortoises and curious goats at the Children’s Animal Center, or grab grub at the snack bar.

Wildest Extra: A two-hour nighttime tour through the park to see what wild antics the animals are up to once the sun sets is as thrilling as it sounds! Want to stay even later? Adventurous explorers can also spend the night at the Fossil Rim Lodge, which was the original home for original Fossil Rim owner Tom Mantzel; or at one of the safari cabins overlooking one of Fossil Rim's most popular wildlife watering holes. 

Online: fossilrim.org

Out of Africa - Camp Verde, AZ

Out of Africa is a safari park in Arizona
Courtesy Out of Africa

Nominated as one of the top 10 Best Safari Parks in the U.S. by USA Today, this 100-acre park is home to hundreds of exotic mammals, birds and reptiles from all over the world—with an assortment of fun ways to see them. Climb aboard the open-air safari truck—or upgrade to a"Supermog" (an all-terrain, safari vehicle modified from a medium-size Isuzu truck)—and set out on a bumpy ride into the Serengeti preserve to see zebras, sable antelope, gemsbok, and more. You may even get a chance to feed a giraffe along the way! When the ride is over, there's plenty more to see, including the "Tiger Splash" show, which lets you spy on Bengal and Siberian tigers as they splash around in their pool and interact with their keepers; and the "Predator Feed," where keepers throw 800 pounds of raw food to eagerly-waiting carnivores.

Wildest Extra: Adrenaline junkies will want to sign up for a zip-line tour over the rolling hills. The "Racing Raptor" features three parallel lines—so you and your kids can zip the more than 1,000 feet together above the animals; the Predator zipline tour gives brave riders a course of five zip line runs above it all (Children must be 8 years old to ride.).

Wild Animal Safari - Pine Mountain, GA

Whether you drive your vehicle, rent a zebra bus (you know you want to) or take advantage of the guided bus tour, your pack will have a grand time spotting many (and even touching a few!) of the 65 different species that roam this 250-acre Serengeti adventure park. Think zebras, elk, bison, camels and more. When the park first opened, it was specially designed to capture the imagination of the littles and engender a lifelong love of animals. Not much has changed since then. Kiddos of all ages love the personal attention they get from the curious animals here! Don't miss the park's newest resident: Malaika, a giraffe calf born in January. 

Note: The Wild Animal Safari also has locations in Strafford, MO and Aggieland, TX.

Wildest Extra: The chance to hand-feed animals at the park's Walkabout Adventure Zoo is a hoot for the tot lot. "The animals are sociable, and you may be slobbered on if you are too close," warns the website (in other words, animal-loving kids will be in heaven). Fuzzy, friendly and hungry, these animals are sure to elicit some giggles from the little ones who feed them.

Online: animalsafari.com

—Allison Sutcliffe & Melissa Heckscher

RELATED STORIES:
14 Wild & Fun Animal Farms & Petting Zoos to Visit Now
Featured Creatures: 7 Incredible Animal Experiences
 The Very Best Zoos in the U.S. 

 

February may be a short month, but the first weekend is long on fun for Seattle families. To start, it’s the last chance for families to catch Stranger Than Fiction at Museum of Flight before it’s gone. This special exhibit tells the story of how humans worked to go higher, faster and farther than ever into space over the decades. Also on our radar: a weekend that was made for your wild child, an old-school family radio drama and a cooking class with lots to love.

photo: Katie Cotterill

Editor’s note: As things continue to evolve with Omicron, we will do our best to keep things current, but do suggest double checking events for any last-minute cancellations or changes before heading out with the kids.

Seattle

Wild Child Weekends
During the month of February, Northwest Trek has a deal families will love. It’s a great place for kids to shake out the winter wiggles and get close to nature. Guests can walk paved, forested pathways to see grizzly bears, gray wolves, bobcats, lynx, river otters, beavers, wolverines and other animals before letting the kids explore Kids’ Trek, the nature-inspired play area. Don’t forget riding the tram to see how many northwest native animals your fam can spot. During the entire month of February, up to two children (12 & under) are free with each paid adult admission (including Presidents’ Day). Discounts are only available for tickets purchased at Northwest Trek’s ticket window. Fri.-Sun. in February. Event details.

Japanese American Remembrance Trail Tour
Join the staff of the Wing Luke Museum for this in-person tour. The group will walk to different sites to memorialize and remember the stories and history of old Japantown before World War II, including the unjust incarceration of Japanese American citizens. This tour is about 90 minutes long and just over a mile to walk. Advance tickets required. Sat. Event details

Kids Valentine Cookie Workshop
This Valentine’s Day kids can bake a batch of freshly made, sweet cookies that will warm everyone’s heart, during this PCC Markets class, led by Cam Zarcone. Kids will bake along with Cam and measure, mix and form chocolate and vanilla-swirled shortbread hearts and make heart thumbprint cookies. Then they’ll take their cookies up a notch and make vanilla frosting for decorating. Also offered in Redmond on Sunday. Registration required. Sat. Event details.

Eastside

Radio Drama 2022
Youth Theater Northwest’s Radio Drama is back for its 7th season. This year’s lineup is from two vintage radio shows—Alfred Hitchcock Presents Ghost Stories for Young People (1962) and The Adventures of Superman (1940-1952). The first is classic spooky Hitchcock story and the second, an action-packed episode of Superman vs. Atomic Man that comic fans of all ages will love. The show is set in a vintage radio station, performed in the traditional radio-drama style, complete with live sound effects. Tickets required. Fri.-Sun. Event details.

Tracking Down Tracks
Join a park ranger at Lewis Creek Park for a leisurely and educational hike. Families will learn about Bellevue’s animal signs as they look for prints, feathers, and even scat (what preschooler can resist?) to see what’s been happening in the park. Get outdoors and explore this weekend. Registration required. Sun. Event details.

Family Swim at Warm Springs
Put a family swim session at the Bellevue Aquatic Center on your weekend radar. It’s a chance to swim on the Warm Springs public side during one of two evening sessions with your kids. You’ll need proof of vaccination, and everyone under the age of 12 must be with an adult. Registration required. Fri. Event details.

—Allison Sutcliffe

RELATED STORIES:

50 Family Activities to Jumpstart Your Winter

Just Do It! 100 Family Adventures around Seattle

Snow Much Fun! Where to Go to Play in the Snow

If you’ve ever dreamed of traveling by RV for a family vacation, now is the perfect time to give it a try. RV rental and RV travel has become increasingly popular during the pandemic, and for good reason. While traditional travel is on pause, traveling in a recreational vehicle means adventuring while staying safe in your own home-base. From mountain views to ocean vistas, there are many stunning SoCal RV stops for your crew to explore. Ready to hit the road? Check out these cool RV parks and RV resorts for your next big adventure.

Costa Vista RV Resort in San Diego

Costa Vista

Calling all glampers! You don't have to travel far to experience an epic RV getaway. San Diego newcomer Costa Vista is turning RV life into an upscale resort-style experience. Opening April 2021, on-site amenities at this modern RV destination include a juice and breakfast bar, on-site cantina, fitness center, pool with cabanas and splash pad and access to the Sweetwater Marsh bike and walking path. No RV? No problem. Costa Vista also has modern, fully-furnished vacation rentals.

Online: sunrvresorts.com

Cava Robles in Paso Robles

Kerry Cushman

Say cheers to a wine country getaway that's not only stunningly beautiful, but family-friendly! With more than 200 local wineries, Paso Robles is a picturesque gem on California's Central Coast, and Cava Robles RV Resort is at the center of it all. With vineyard vibes, modern pools and on-site restaurant, this upscale RV resort is a great spot to park your home-on-wheels while you soak it all in.

Parents will love exploring nearby wineries such Eberle Winery and Vina Robles, while kids will love getting their giggles out at the expansive playground in Downtown City Park. After exploring the charming downtown square, snag a seat on Thomas Hill Organics' patio or order to-go and experience the local flavor of this coveted farm-to-table restaurant.

Online: sunrvresorts.com

Ocean Mesa in Goleta

Kerry Cushman

Take a trip to the American Riviera with a vacation to Santa Barbara's spectacular coast. With stunning views and glamping amenities, Ocean Mesa RV Resort is a great choice to explore this coastal region. Get into the outdoors on one of the nearby hiking trails or head to downtown Santa Barbara for a guided family kayak session with Santa Barbara Adventure Company. Kids will love looking for sea stars and seals while you take in the stunning scenery.

Ocean Mesa guests are also invited to enjoy amenities from adjacent sister property, El Capitan Canyon. RV life here includes seasonal concerts, outdoor movies, heated pool, playground and an on-site spa. Forget something? Head to the resort's market and grab a bottle of wine, s'mores supplies or goodies from local purveyors.

Online: oceanmesa.com

Indian Wells RV Resort in Greater Palm Springs

Kerry Cushman

Whether you're headed to the desert for some fun in the sun or to hit nearby Joshua Tree National Park, Indian Wells RV Resort is well-situated for a sunny desert getaway. Grab a famous date shake at nearby Shields Date Garden or enjoy patio dining on El Paseo before heading to the Living Desert Zoo in Palm Desert. Rated in the top 1% of U.S. attractions by Trip Advisor, the Living Desert Zoo is home to giraffes, an Australian Adventure exhibit where you can intermingle with wallabies, cheetahs, big horn sheep and a popular G-scale model train exhibit with 3,300 feet of track. After a day at the zoo, splash at the resort's heated pool while epic sunsets color the desert sky.

Inside scoop: Book a site on Mountain Vista (pictured) for new concrete pads and palm trees!

Online: sunrvresorts.com

Pineknot Campground in Big Bear

Kerry Cushman

Ready to hit the mountain trails of Big Bear? Pineknot Campground, open this year from Apr. 23-Oct. 30, 2021, is the perfect spot to explore this destination. Whether you've come to hike, bike, or just soak up the mountain views, Big Bear is an outdoor lover's paradise.

Additionally, the Big Bear Alpine Zoo is a must-visit for animal-loving families. The zoo has been saving wildlife since 1959 and has a beautiful new facility in Moonridge. Families will love getting up-close to well-cared-for animals including grizzly bears, bobcats, snow leopards, bald eagles, foxes and mountain lions. While 90% of the animals treated by Big Bear Alpine Zoo get re-released to their native environments, animals who are too injured or unable to care for themselves in the wild can be seen in the new facility.

After you've worked up an appetite, make sure to check out Visit Big Bear's list of open places for takeout!

Online: recreation.gov

Sand Hollow State Park

Kerry Cushman

Buckle up those seat belts because this epic road trip destination is worth the drive. A 7-hour trip from San Diego brings you to Sand Hollow State Park in Hurricane, Utah. Just 45-minutes from majestic Zion National Park, this breathtaking state park is comprised of red sandstone rock and warm, blue swimming holes. Bring your tent or RV and boat, fish, and dive from the popular rock formations at Sand Hollow Reservoir. Ready to go off-road? Ride the dunes of Sand Mountain in an off-highway vehicle before you retire to your RV site for an epic Utah sunset over the unworldly red rocks.

Online: stateparks.utah.gov

Port San Luis in Avila Beach

Kerry Cushman

Hello beachfront! Can't get much closer to the ocean without a boat at Port San Luis RV Camping in Avila Beach. This beautiful spot on California's Central Coast is just past Avila Beach and steps from the sand. Here, you'll enjoy endless ocean views, a pier with restaurant and seafood market, charter fishing and a dog beach where Fido can frolic freely. The kids will love the gentle waves and a front row view to sea lions basking in the sun. All RV Camping is currently by online reservation only.

Online: portsanluis.com

China Peak Mountain Resort in Lakeshore

Kerry Cushman

Looking for first tracks with your little shredders? China Peak Mountain Resort in Lakeshore is one of a few ski resorts in California that offers overnight RV parking. Wake up mountainside for an epic day on the slopes and settle back into your RV for après-ski naps and snacks. Rates are $49 for non-holidays and all RV's must have a reservation. 

Online: skichinapeak.com

––Kerry Cushman

featured image via Kerry Cushman

RELATED STORIES:

35 Epic Treehouses Across the U.S. You Can Rent with Your Kids

11 Reasons Why RV Camping Will Save Your Family Vacation Plans

Thinking About a 2021 National Parks RV Trip? You Need to Book NOW

Caillou. Thomas. Elmo. Dora. The television is full of characters kids love but who drive parents up the wall. These shows have their positive qualities, from teaching real educational concepts to making kids laugh like crazy. But with so much great stuff out there, you don’t need to endure mindless repetition, outdated stereotypes, or less-than-inspirational role models to serve kids with some quality entertainment. After all, kids’ television programming is more thoughtful and compelling than ever! These 20 titles handpicked by the experts at Common Sense Media are so good you’ll actually WANT to watch with your kids.

Sesame Street

Recommended for ages 2 and older

Yeah, Elmo's still on it. But Sesame Street remains a superstar of early childhood programming.  This classic show continues to churn out hilarious parodies that both kids and parents will get a kick out of. With engaging learning lessons, diverse characters, catchy music, and lots of celebrity guests, you really can't go wrong with this enduring winner.

Network: PBS

Ask the Storybots

Recommended for ages 3 and older

This animated show is both educational and entertaining in every scene yet is visually appealing as well as humorous enough to make both children and parents laugh out loud. While the premise of Ask the Storybots is to answer a child's question, the antics that the characters get themselves into are very funny, and each episode always has an educational twist without being obvious.

Network: Netflix

Beat Bugs

Recommended for ages 3 and older

Even parents will enjoy this sweet show inspired by the enduring magic of Beatles' songs. With messages of friendship and teamwork, there are a lot of great takeaways (and, of course, it's never too early to turn your kids onto good music). Guest musicians like Pink, Eddie Vedder, and Sia interpret classics like "Blackbird" and "Magical Mystery Tour," and kids will find the magnified natural world thrilling. 

Network: Netflix

Lily's Driftwood Bay

Recommended for ages 3 and older

Lily explores her cute paper-cut world and adventures with friends, and she has a particularly sweet relationship with her single-parent father. This darling series is, paradoxically, a great way to impress upon young kids the joy of simple, screen-free playtime and can inspire your kids to explore their own worlds with curiosity.

Network: Universal Kids

Puffin Rock

Recommended for ages 3 and older 

Irish actor Chris O'Dowd warmly narrates this delightful show about kindhearted, curious puffin Oona and her family. Kids will learn all about their island environment while following Oona's adventures (gorgeously animated by the folks behind Song of the Sea and The Secret of Kells). Bonus: It has a theme song you won't mind having in your head for days!

Network: Netflix

Motown Magic

Recommended for ages 4 and older

This gem of a series marries iconic Motown music with a quality story that emphasizes family, friendship and self-esteem. Each episode of Motown Magic introduces a different song integrated into the story in creative ways that will leave viewers young and old tapping to the tunes. The show is set in the fictitious place called Motown (clearly intended to suggest Detroit) with homages to its historic musical and automotive past all around. Urban scenery and the characters' ethnic diversity reflect the city setting as well. With Smokey Robinson on board as a music producer (and among the talented contemporary voice cast) and prominent themes about family ties, creativity and embracing individuality, this exceptional series is a great pick for parents and kids to enjoy together.

Network: Netflix

Tumble Leaf

Recommended for ages 4 and older

Vibrant animation and colorful characters will draw families to this gently paced series, where sweet animal characters make exciting discoveries that teach simple science concepts. Positive examples of problem solving and other prereading skills such as rhyming and basic shape recognition are woven into the stories as well. Parents will enjoy the colorful whimsy and standout messages about friendship that play out among the diverse animal cast. 

Network: Amazon Prime

Odd Squad

Recommended for ages 5 and older

In this smartly written educational series, crack team Olive and Otto solve math-related mysteries as part of a government bureau manned entirely by hilarious kids. Parents will appreciate that math skills are embedded in stories that are meant to reflect real-life scenarios ... give or take a few romping dinosaurs or songs with magical powers, that is. With a diverse cast, an equal number of male and female characters and awesome grown-up guest stars, it's a must-watch for all ages.

Network: PBS

 

Little Lunch

Recommended for ages 6 and older 

Little Lunch is a The Office-style mockumentary for kids that takes place during the most important period of a child’s day: free time at school. This delightful live-action show is vibrant and funny enough that parents will want to watch it with their kids (and maybe even sneak in an episode when they aren't even there!). Modeled after classic mockumentary formats, with interviews, asides and a plot running through it all, Little Lunch gives young kids clear (and often hilarious) voices.

Network: Netflix

Milo Murphy's Law

Recommended for ages age 6 and older 

From the creators of the beloved Phineas and Ferb comes Milo Murphy, the unluckiest kid in the world (gleefully voiced by "Weird Al" Yankovic). Taking the new kid in school under his wing, Milo faces constant calamity with a positive attitude, and tweens will be tickled by his misadventures, otherwise known as getting through a normal day. There's no deep learning from this lighthearted series, but Milo Murphy's Law has an excellent voice cast (Sarah Chalke, Christian Slater and Vanessa Williams among them), hearty friendships, and some unforgettable scenarios that make this a surefire family fave.

Network: Disney XD

Planet Earth

Recommended for ages 6 and older

Never before have the world's many wonders been quite as accessible as they are in this stunning nature series. In the filming process, many shots and events were captured on camera for the first time; viewers will marvel at a glimpse of the rare snow leopard (one of only 40 surviving in the wild) hunting in the Himalayas, the bluebird of paradise strutting his stuff to woo a mate, and grizzly bears bringing their newborns out into the light. Narrated by actress/conservationist Sigourney Weaver, Planet Earth will educate and inspire the whole family. 

Network: Discovery Channel

American Ninja Warrior Junior

Recommended for ages 7 and older

American Ninja Warrior Junior is a great choice for families watching together, as it celebrates fair play, good sportsmanship and physical fitness. Positive examples of mentoring exist between adult Warriors and these young competitors, and there's a lot of shared excitement among the fans and the hosts as the competition evolves. Fair warning though—many of these junior competitors were inspired to start training by the original American Ninja Warrior. Seeing kids their age compete might just be the spark that ignites your own kids' interest.

Network: Universal Kids

Voltron: Legendary Defender

Recommended for ages 8 and older

This exceptional series gives a DreamWorks makeover to an '80s fan favorite, and the result deserves to draw big crowds. Tweens who aren't ready for the often violent and sexual world of anime will be totally satisfied with this family-friendly gem. The characters are endearingly imperfect, each arriving on the scene with his unique baggage and quirks but devoted to a common cause that unites them and makes you want to root for them. Voltron also has a deep sci-fi backstory, lots of action, and just enough comedy, plus a team of devoted friends working together for the greater good.  

Network: Netflix

We Bare Bears

Recommended for ages 8 and older

This delightful series about three media-savvy bear brothers trying to make their way in a pastel-colored techie San Francisco is a great choice for the whole family. The bears’ attempts to fit in sometimes poke gentle fun at hallmarks of modern society (reliance on technology, Internet memes and the like) and usually result in some sort of chaos brought on by the bears' utter unsuitability for the people world. Even so, what stands out is how the characters' uniqueness serves them well as a group and how they're reminded time and again that they're stronger as a group than they are individually. Tweens will love the bears' charming antics as they try to fit in with humans, while parents will appreciate the gentle vibe and jokes for folks of all ages.

Network: Cartoon Network

Myth Busters

Recommended for ages 9 and older

This fun, fact-filled show will answer some of those long-standing "what ifs" that may have been nagging at you, demonstrating how much fun science can be to boot. It’s hosted by Jamie Hyneman, a model maker and special-effects expert for the movie and TV industries, and Adam Savage, whose handy expertise includes carpentry, welding and animation. The team makes a good comedic duo; Jamie's dry humor is the perfect complement to Adam's quips and wisecracks. Science-minded families will find Mythbusters exceptionally entertaining.

Network: Discovery Channel

Summer Camp Island

Recommended for ages 9 and older

With the likes of Adventure Time on her resume, creator Julia Pott clearly has a knack for the kind of oddball storytelling that strikes a chord with viewers. Summer Camp Island is a truly heartwarming series disguised as the kind of offbeat cartoon that kids and parents will enjoy equally. Because of the story's magical setting, the unexpected is routine, and it's impossible to predict what will happen next. This gives the show a welcome freshness that, coupled with the endearing characters and gentle visual style, yields a worthy contender for families' attention.

Network: Cartoon Network

Adventure Time

Recommended for ages 10 and older

If you put an 8-year-old boy's imagination to paper, the result would be pretty close to Adventure Time. Few rules of the real world apply in Ooo, where there's really no telling what adventures each day will bring. Older kids capable of getting the show's tongue-in-cheek, ironic and referential humor will revel in the nonsensical fun and are likely to be hooked by the sumptuous and surprisingly deep Adventure Time universe. Younger kids might be a bit baffled, but the show is so inventive and gorgeously rendered that even young kids can find it dazzling (especially when watching alongside entertained siblings or parents!). 

Network: Cartoon Network

The Dragon Prince

Recommended for ages 10 and older

The Dragon Prince is a beautifully rendered epic animated fantasy about two humans and their elfin friend who join forces to stop a war that's building between their two kingdoms. Brimming with mysticism, action, and suspense, this engrossing series grabs your attention and doesn't let go. Families who watch will find this addictive story rich in themes like heeding the call of duty, following your instinct, seeing past differences and being courageous.  

Network: Netflix

Andi Mack

Recommended for ages 10 and older

This sharp sitcom is about a 13-year-old girl with a regular life and a pretty unique family (she just found out her sister is really her mom!). This refreshing series doesn't shy away from emotion or meaningful issues in how Andi (and her mom Bex, to a lesser degree) carries on after the world as she knows it takes a hit. In a surprisingly organic way, it affirms that while the process of growing up can be trying and uncomfortable, strong relationships and the bonds of family are our most reliable sources of strength. Andi Mack tackles big and small issues in this newly minted teen's life with humor and charm that's appealing to parents almost as much as it is to kids. It's fresh, funny, diverse and honest, and tweens will love Andi's friend group and their adventures navigating school, crushes, and complex family issues.

Network: Disney Channel 

Rilakkuma and Kaoru

Recommended for ages 10 and older

Rilakkuma and Kaoru is a charming, satisfying series with surprising insight into the psyche of its main human character, a youngish female professional who shares her apartment with three unusual roommates: two toy-like bears named Rilakkuma and Korilakkuma, and a yellow chick named Kiiroitori. It's a joyful and clever project that marries this style of animation with such relatable grown-up content, yielding a unique series that will endear itself to just about anyone who watches.

Network: Netflix 

These are all excellent shows for kids ages 10 and under. For more ideas or picks for older kids, check out this robust list of award-winning TV picks at Common Sense Media.

Common Sense Media
Tinybeans Voices Contributor

Common Sense Media is an independent nonprofit organization offering unbiased ratings and trusted advice to help families make smart media and technology choices. Check out our ratings and recommendations at www.commonsense.org.

An Alaska family vacation is on many parent’s bucket list. While planning a trip to Alaska, most visitors arrive via cruise ship (almost 2 million in 2017) and spend time in Southeast Alaska (Juneau, Ketchikan, Skaway and Glacier Bay), which is itself an awe-inspiring experience. But to really experience The Last Frontier, we embarked on a two-week trip on a Princess Land and Sea excursion which included exploring the Alaska Interior (including Anchorage, Denali and Fairbanks) as well as the southeast, to see just how kid-friendly Alaska is by boat, train and, yes, helicopter!

Photo: Princess

Why Land and Sea?
For many families, Alaska is a one-and-done bucket list item, so if you are planning a “big ticket excursion” you should definitely consider The Interior of Alaska (i.e. the “land” portion of Land and Sea). The Alaska landscape is dramatically changing. The shrinking glaciers and thawing tundra not only affect the panorama, but it also affects the plant and wildlife that calls that ecosystem home.

When kids can experience first-hand the effects of environmental changes, they become better stewards for the planet. While you can certainly catch glimpses of Alaska from a cruise ship, viewing a grizzly in its natural habitat or seeing moose, wold, elk and caribou and as you travel through their habitat on a train car offers a once-in-a-lifetime experience that can have a lasting, lifetime impact on little humans.

How to Do It?
Princess Cruise Line has been in Alaska since the 1970s (they are celebrating 50 years in 2019), so they have deep relationships in most Alaska communities. Princess is the only cruise line that owns lodges, as well as train cars, which makes for seamless travel (music to our ears when traveling with kids), so they are the go-to partner for many travelers for Alaska Land and Sea packages. If you can, book a MedallionClass ship, Princesses newest technology  that make on boarding, managing services and keeping track of kids much easier. For more detail about how the  Ocean Medallion systems works, click here.  

Photo:Jacqui Boland

How Long?
You can bundle anywhere from 3-10 nights on land into your 7-day cruise, and opt to do it “On Your Own” (no prescheduled activities), Connoisseur (includes planned excursions and a Tour Director) or pick a few options in between.

We did the Connoisseur level, and if you’re traveling with a few other families, this is a splurge-worthy option, as the tour director handles every last detail for you, plus offers fascinating, detailed knowledge about each section of Alaska, and can tailor the content for a younger audience. The Princess  tour director’s personalities and enthusiasm are well documented on sites like TripAdvisor.

Photo: Jacqui Boland 

It’s Easy Than It Sounds
When you arrive at your first destination, you will receive a set of vouchers for hotels, food and transportation for the remainder of your land excursion, so everything is organized and easy to access.

TIP: If you’re doing a Land and Seas excursion, we definitely recommend scheduling the land portion FIRST. While Princess makes moving around Alaska interior pretty easy, after 4 or 5 nights in different lodges, it was a treat to unpack our suitcase in our cabin on the cruise ship and have our cabin and personal items safely stored for the rest of the trip.

What to pack
Sorry to report that the weather across Alaska can be un predictable and you need to bring a bit of everything. For each family member. we followed this blog post faithfully and felt well prepared. Layers are key. Bring fewer, hard-working items. Laundry rooms are accessible both on the ship as well as the lodges.

ITNERARY
Following is a sample itinerary, based on our 14-day trip. Again, you can customize that land portion for 3-10 nights.

Day 1: Anchorage, AK
For most Land and Sea packages, you have a choice to fly into Fairbanks or Anchorage. Anchorage is the largest city in Alaska and a good place to get organized and pick up any last minute items. Assess the weather and if you need to stock up on any last-minute gear (North Face, REI and local outfitters you can find on Sixth Street, Rays).

TIP: We spoke to other travelers who flew into Fairbanks, and think that city might be a better option for arrival with kids, as you can kick off your Alaska adventure with a visit to the “North Pole” where you take a photo with Santa year round and pet reindeer.

Where to Stay in Anchorage: Captain Cooke Hotel

What to Do:  After a long day traveling, get some exercise and bike the Coastal Trail, 22 miles. We used Downtown Bike Rentals which is walking distance from the hotel but there are some e-bike rentals available as well. (TIP: spend the extra $2 for bike that has extra gears).

Where to Eat: 49th State Brewing Psst…Alaska is full of great breweries with casual, kid-friendly fare.

Photo:Jacqui Boland 

Day 2: Trapper Creek / Talkeetna, AK
This area is known as “South Denali” After the (relative) hustle and bustle of Anchorage, Mt. McKinley Princess Lodge in Trapper Creek is where we felt like we finally left the lower 48 behind and immersed our had arrived at the picture-postcard Alaska.

The Lodge sits on the banks of the Chulitina River, in Denali State Park (which is different from the best-known Denali National Park) and is the perfect place to do nothing but sit out on the big deck, waiting to catch a glimpse of The Mountain, as Denali is colloquially known. When the kids get restless, you can take an easy half-mile hike to Animal Planet-created treehouse.

What to Do: Spend the day in Talkeetna (it’s $10 round trip on a bus from the lodge). The cute trading post downtown was the inspiration for the TV show Northern Exposure. There is a small museum in town well-worth the visit, as well as the local artisan shops. If you’re feeling adventurous, the zipline tour is a blast.

Where to eat: Mountain High Pizza Pie, Talkeetna

Where to Stay: Mt. McKinley Princess Lodge

TIP: Denali State Park differs from Denali National Park in that you can use motorized vehicles in the state park. A variety of ATV excursions are available and kid-friendly.

Photo:Jacqui Boland 

Day 3: Denali National Park and Preserve, AK
While the Mt. McKinley Princess Lodge offered tranquility and mountain views, the Denali Princess Wilderness Lodge is a bustling activity-filled resort similar to the Resort at Squaw Creek in Lake Tahoe, CA, or the  Sundance Lodge in Provo, UT. With six restaurants and cafes, dozens of shops in the village and a river trail to explore, the Denali Princess Lodge is the ideal spot to camp out with kids. Additionally, all the the excursions you’ll want to partake in, including the Tundra Wilderness Tour in the Park, as well as other excursions, are easily accessed from the Lodge.

What to Do: You have the best chance of seeing animals like grizzly bears and moose on the Tundra Wilderness Tour (though not for the faint of heart, as it is eight hours on a bus through the park, out and back, with many stops along the way). Another splurge-worthy excursion is a helicopter tour with glacier landing. Consider this the BIG DAY of Adventure with your kids and some of your most memorable adventures.

Photo:Jacqui Boland 

Where to Eat: We we thrilled to find some yummy vegetables on the menu at Fannie Q restaurant with live music. Outside the restaurant, you’ll find a campfire and a chance to make your own s’mores.

Where to Stay: Denali Princess Wilderness lodge

TIP: We debated on doing a sled-dog puppy excursion, but we’re glad we didn’t when we found out Denali National Park does free puppy tours daily. The resort also has many kid-friendly activities, from card and board games to park ranger programs and walking trails.

Photo:Jacqui Boland 

Day 4: Train to from Denali to Whittier
There are various train rides through Alaska’s Interior, but when you book with Princess, your seats are “dome” seats (i.e. a spectacular 180 view) because Princess owns their own rail car. Additionally, all the seats are like coach-bus seats, all facing forwards and with pull down tray-tables (like on airplanes). Click here to get an idea of the train experience. Princess is also one of the few railcars that has an outside viewing platform which is a fun activity when kids get restless.

TIP: Don’t miss the dining car. The food was some of the best on our land portion of the trip.  

Photo:Jacqui Boland 

Day 5: Arrival at Your Cruise Ship Cruise
This is where the Princess OceanMedallion system makes boarding the ship seamless. First, if you booked via Princess, your luggage will be picked up from the Denali Lodge and delivered to your stateroom. Second, with your OceanMedallion wearable device, your on-boarding time is less than 30 minutes from disembarking to arrival in cabin with a quick scan a select entry point.

Note: You’ll spend two to three days on the ship with no ports or disembarking. First, at the beginning of the trip when traveling to and around Glacier Bay, and at the end of the trip, when heading to Vancouver or you port of de-embarkation. After a busy few days of buses, trains and other transportation, this hiatus is a heavenly break.

Photo:Princess 

It’s a Big Kid-Friendly Ship
Cruise ships are a combination theme park/resort/shopping mall. With a 3,500 person capacity (including about 900 kids in the summer), it’s helpful to get a lay of the land and identify not only your cabin, but also spots where your kids are likely to hang out, including the kid’s club (Camp Discovery), the pool and their favorite restaurants.

Camp Discovery (as in Discovery Channel) features three spaces designed for kids of three different age groups. The Treehouse, which is a bright, whimsical forest and animal-themed space, is designed for children ages three to seven and features lots of hands-on activities, including an outdoor destination-themed water table. The Lodge, for ages eight to 12, is a cozy center inspired by the great outdoors that offers sports activities, games and a place for kids to hang out and lounge. For teens, ages 13-17, The Beach House offers a contemporary surf-themed lounge for hanging and socializing.

While participation in the kids clubs is free during the day, childcare is available in the evenings at Camp Discovery for $5 per child per hour.

Aside from the kids clubs, Princess also has a ton of kids programs throughout the ship, from Movies Under the Stars, to dance parties, arts and crafts, and sports. You can use the Medallion app to get a daily calendar of events.

The Discovery experience extends beyond the kids club to activities the whole-family can participate in, including Shark Week at Sea and a search for Big Foot or participate in a crab-sorting challenge (inspired by “Deadliest Catch”).

NOTE: Princess has a variety of cabin layouts available, including family suites, depending on the size of your family.

Day 6: Hubbard Glacier / Glacier Bay National Park
Bring your layers and binoculars because this is a full-day cruising event around the spectacular Glacier Bay National Park. You’ll experience jaw-dropping views from every window. Additionally, a local naturalist on board boat will present a moving talk over the intercom system about growing up in the area and the importance of protecting environment with helpful tips like the small things we can do today.

Photo: Princess

TIP: Scope out the decks well in advance. There are some—like the top floor—that will be crowded, while others are quiet with few passengers. Move around from deck to deck to enjoy the views and make sure to dine at a restaurant with views to get the most of the day. The Horizon Court was our go-to for the sheer variety of self-serve food options.

Day 7: Skagway, Alaska
Skagway will offer your longest day in port, so make the most of it with shopping and dining in town. There are no shortage of t-shirt shops and scenic historical building and statues around town.

Photo:Jacqui Boland 

What to Do: With kids, we definitely recommend a visit to Kroschel Wildlife Park, which is a 45 minute ferry ride to the picturesque town of Haines, followed by a one hour bus ride to reserve. The proprietor Steve Kroschel is kooky but entertaining, and the grounds are straight out of Swiss Family Robinson. All guests have an opportunity to see orphaned wildlife, including bear, baby moose, adult moose, reindeer, mink, porcupine, weasel, wolverine, fox, grey wolf, up close and personal, and can often touch (and kiss) the animals.

Where to Eat: Skagway Fish Company for crab claws and fish and chips

Day 8: Juneau, Alaska
The capital of Alaska has much to offer in the way of shopping and dining. The Juneau downtown street tour is worth your time to give you a historical perspective on the churches, saloons and merchants that comprise the area.

What to Do: Take a bear tour to Admirality Island. The Floatplane ride to the Island is half the fun. The guides on all Alaska excursions are knowledgeable and personable and will instill confidence even if you are petrified of bears.

Where to Eat: Take a Juneau Food Tour to experience all the best local foods, including crab bisque, hot wings and salmon.

Day 9: Ketchikan, Alaska
Ketchikan is the shortest port stop for cruise ships, so if you are doing an excursion, you might not have time to explore the town. If you skip the excursion, you can visit some of Ketchikan’s art galleries where quilts, paintings, knitting carving and weaving are on display.

Photo: Princess

What to Do: Sport fishing is a big part of Alaskan culture and Ketchikan has a sizable marina where you can hop on a charter fishing tour or embark on a fly-out fishing trip to a “secret” fishing destination. All charters will supply all the gear, including wet-weather attire. We enjoyed Baranoff Fishing Excursion as the team cooked the fish we caught at an incredible private campsite that also served hot chocolate and other treats.

Where to Eat: Alaska Crepes. Whether it’s strawberry shortcake or Nutella & banana, a sweet or savory crepe is a great way to start or end your day when you’ve had your fill of fish and chips.

Photo:Jacqui Boland 

Overall, traveling with your family in Alaska in relatively easy, especially if you book through Princess Cruises. The hardest part about the trip is planning each leg and deciding which excursions to do at each destination and port. Fortunately, Princess has a recommended list of excursions and many are also vetted by Discovery Animal Planet or National Geographic.

The excursions chosen above were all Animal Planet or Nat Geo selections and we were thrilled with our picks. Look for the shore excursions marked as Discovery Family Tours, which are targeted at families with kids ages 3 to 12 and involve hands-on activities that connect kids to the destination. Animal Planet tours are ideal for parents and kids who want to see whales, sharks, sloths and other critters up close.

Come Back New. That is the tagline for Princess Cruises 50th Anniversary, which is pretty spot on, since science says spending time on nature boosts your immune system, improves your sleep, lowers your blood pressure plus a zillion other health benefits. So don’t be surprised when, after spending two weeks in Alaska, your whole family comes back new. Maybe they’ll even pick up their laundry?

—Jacqui Boland

 

Editor’s note: This trip was paid for by Princess Cruises but all opinions belong to the author. 

 

RELATED STORIES:

17 Winter Vacation Ideas to Book Now

Why an Ireland Castle Vacation Should Be Your Next Family Trip

Make Your Vaycay Dreams Come True & Book This Chocolate-Themed Cruise

Epic International Adventures Worth Taking with Kids

You’ll go wild over our list of top spots

Nothing gets our kids more excited than a trip to see animals, and we’re lucky to have amazing institutions like the San Diego Zoo, the Bronx Zoo, and the National Zoo right here in America. We’ve rounded up a list of the best zoos in the US, perfect for your next day off or vacation. Besides offering amazing photo ops, a zoo day is also a great jumping-off point to teach the little ones about wildlife conservation and endangered species—and that’s a win in our book!

1. Alabama: Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo, Gulf Shores
Get up close and personal with more than 500 exotic animals at the Alabama Coast Zoo. Cuddle up with a baby red kangaroo, play with young lemurs, and meet a 50-year-old tortoise, then book it over to the shaded picnic area to relax and refuel.

1204 Gulf Shores Pkwy
Gulf Shores, AL
Online: alabamagulfcoastzoo.org

2. Alaska: Alaska Zoo, Anchorage
The Alaska Zoo has cared for orphaned and injured wildlife since 1969.  The only zoo in Alaska, today you can visit their black and brown bears, otters, owls, seals, and other critters, and you can even “adopt” an animal with a donation to the zoo.

4731 O’Malley Rd.
Anchorage, AK
Online: alaskazoo.org

Arizona zoo is one of the best zoos in the US
 

photo: Missy B. via Yelp

3. Arizona: Phoenix Zoo, Phoenix
As one of the nation’s largest non-profit zoos, this Arizona gem has enough features to keep your crew coming back again and again. In addition to animal encounters and safari adventures, there are also shops, cafes, and gardens for you to explore.

455 N. Galvin Pkwy
Phoenix, AZ
Online: phoenixzoo.org

4. Arkansas: Little Rock Zoo, Little Rock
You’ll find more than 725 animals on over 33 acres at the Little Rock Zoo, from zebras to otters to chimpanzees. You can hop aboard the train, feed fish, go for a spin on the carousel, and interact with friendly lorikeets—in short, you definitely won’t run out of things to do.

1 Zoo Dr.
Little Rock, AR
Online: littlerockzoo.com

5. California: San Diego Zoo, San Diego
Although we’re big fans of the San Francisco Zoo and the LA Zoo, our top pick in the Golden State is the San Diego Zoo, a world-famous spot that’s totally worth the trip. The zoo is home to more than 3,500 rare and endangered animals, along with more than 700,000 exotic plants. Click here to see our guide to getting the most out of your visit.

2920 Zoo Dr.
San Diego, CA
Online: zoo.sandiegozoo.org

photo: Amber C. via Yelp

6. Colorado: Denver Zoo, Denver
We love the broad range of exhibits at the Denver Zoo—kids can learn about and feed animals in the Be a Zookeeper Zone, splash around in the Explore the Shore play area, and get up close and personal with tigers, rhinos, and other critters in special animal encounters.

2300 Steele St.
Denver, CO
Online: denverzoo.org

7. Connecticut: Beardsley Zoo, Bridgeport
Spend your day at the Beardsley Zoo learning about endangered and threatened species, including tigers, wolves, anteaters, and condors. Check out their event lineup, offering everything from Earth Day parties to educational programs for toddlers.

1875 Noble Ave.
Bridgeport, CT
Online: beardsleyzoo.org

8. Delaware: Brandywine Zoo, Wilmington
Located in a scenic spot on the Brandywine River, this gem of a spot is guaranteed to be a family favorite. You’ll have the chance to see red pandas, geckos, and herons, plus the zoo offers special reptile shows and day camps.

1001 N. Park Dr.
Wilmington, DE
Online: brandywinezoo.org

photo: Adam S. via Yelp

9. Florida: Zoo Miami, Miami
Make a day of it at Zoo Miami—after you’ve seen the exotic animals (and fed a giraffe!), kids can run and explore in the playground and water play areas, go for a ride on the wildlife carousel, and chill out in a pedal boat.

12400 SW 152nd St.
Miami, FL
Online: zoomiami.org

10. Georgia: Zoo Atlanta, Atlanta
In the course of an afternoon at Zoo Atlanta, you can take a stroll through an African rainforest, have an up-close encounter with a giant panda and watch the animals chow down on their afternoon snacks. Sign us up!

800 Cherokee Ave. SE
Atlanta, GA
Online: zooatlanta.org

11. Hawaii: Pana’ewa Rainforest Zoo and Gardens, Hilo
As the only naturally occurring tropical rainforest zoo in the United States, this 12-acre zoo is a must-visit the next time you’re on the Big Island. You’ll have the chance to see anteaters, alligators, and an orange Bengal tiger named Sriracha as you stroll through the lush plants and trees.

800 Stainback Hwy
Hilo, HI
Online: hilozoo.org

12. Idaho: Idaho Falls Zoo at Tautphaus Park, Idaho Falls
Kids will have a blast seeing snow leopards, zebras, wallabies, and more critters. Don’t forget to visit the Children’s Zoo, where they can pet sheep and goats, watch pigs play in the mud, and explore what it’s like to be a bird.

2725 Carnival Way
Idaho Falls, ID
Online: idahofallsidaho.gov/735/Zoo

photo: Effie D. via Yelp

13. Illinois: Brookfield Zoo, Brookfield
Get an up-close look at bottlenose dolphins, gentle giraffes, sea lions, and lots of other animals at the Brookfield Zoo. Kids will also have the chance to touch and feed parakeets and goats, ride the carousel and join in on a motor safari.

8400 W. 31st St.
Brookfield, IL
Online: czs.org/Brookfield-ZOO/Home

14. Indiana: Indianapolis Zoo, Indianapolis
The Indianapolis Zoo was the first in the United States to be accredited as a zoo, aquarium, and botanical garden by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums, and today your crew will love seeing some of their 1,400 animals. From desert lizards to ocean-dwelling penguins, there’s so much to experience.

1200 W. Washington St.
Indianapolis, IN
Online: indianapoliszoo.com

15. Iowa: Blank Park Zoo, Des Moines
Whether you’re an Iowa native or just visiting, Blank Park Zoo is totally worth a visit. In addition to seeing flamingos, bald eagles, and lion cubs, you can feed giraffes and ostriches, go for a ride on the carousel and hop aboard the zoo’s train.

7401 SW 9th St.
Des Moines, IA
Online: blankparkzoo.com

16. Kansas: Sedgwick County Zoo, Wichita
With a world-class tiger exhibit, a gorilla forest, and a penguin cove, just to name a few, this fantastic zoo really has something for everyone. Check out the learning programs for kids of all ages, including overnight Creature Campouts for adventurous animal lovers.

5555 W. Zoo Blvd.
Wichita, KS
Online: scz.org

photo: Michelle W. via Yelp

17. Kentucky: Louisville Zoo, Louisville
Make a trip to the Louisville Zoo to get a close-up look at rhinos, wallabies, grizzly bears, and more animals. Stroll through an aviary to interact with and feed lorikeets, take on a ropes course, and burn off some energy in the kids’ play area.

1100 Trevilian Way
Louisville, KY
Online: louisvillezoo.org

18. Louisiana: Audubon Zoo, New Orleans
Enter the Jaguar Jungle, take a stroll through a Louisiana Swamp, and explore an African Savanna at this fantastic zoo that’s devoted to saving endangered wildlife. If it’s a hot day, bring your swimsuits along and head over to the Splash Park to cool off.

6500 Magazine St.
New Orleans, LA
Online: audubonnatureinstitute.org/zoo

19. Maine: DEW Haven, Mount Vernon
DEW Haven is a nonprofit zoo and rescue that’s home to more than 200 domestic, wild, and exotic animals from around the world. You’ll have the chance to see camels, bears, tigers, and more critters.

918 Pond Rd.
Mount Vernon, ME
Online: dewhaven.com

The Maryland Zoo in Baltimore is one of the best zoos in the US
photo: Bob T. via Yelp

20. Maryland: Maryland Zoo, Baltimore
From lemurs to flamingos, the Maryland Zoo has plenty of animals to observe. Check out their Penguin Encounter, where you’ll get a private tour with a zookeeper and special photo ops with the penguins. Before you leave, go for a ride on the Zephyr, the zoo’s train.

1 Safari Pl.
Baltimore, MD
Online: marylandzoo.org

21. Massachusetts: Southwick’s Zoo, Mendon
At Southwick’s Zoo, you’ll have the chance to see and learn about all your favorite animals, like giraffes, chimpanzees, kangaroos, and rhinos. Take a stroll through the 35-acre deer forest and ride the Woodlands Express train through the North American Elk habitat and wetlands.

2 Southwick St.
Mendon, MA
Online: southwickszoo.com

22. Michigan: Detroit Zoo, Royal Oak
With more than 2,000 animals over 125 acres, animal lovers will be in heaven at the Detroit Zoo. Check out all the amphibians, mammals, birds, and reptiles, then explore the playgrounds, go for a spin on the carousel, and snap photos in front of the historic fountain.

8450 W. 10 Mile Rd.
Royal Oak, MI
Online: detroitzoo.org

23. Minnesota: Minnesota Zoo, Apple Valley
At the Minnesota Zoo, your crew can get a close look at bears at Russia’s Grizzly Coast, walk along a beaver pond, peek into a coyote den, and wander through a rainforest with lemurs and kangaroos. Plus, don’t forget to check out their daily activities, from shark feedings to hands-on animal encounters.

13000 Zoo Blvd.
Apple Valley, MN
Online: mnzoo.org

24. Mississippi: Hattiesburg Zoo, Hattiesburg
Discover animals from around the world as you trek through the Hattiesburg Zoo, from ostriches to alligators to porcupines. Don’t miss the Sloth Experience, where you’ll get a behind-the-scenes tour of the animal kitchen and a chance to help prepare snacks for sloths and even feed the animals.

107 S. 17th Ave.
Hattiesburg, MS
Online: zoohattiesburg.com

photo: Helen P. via Yelp

25. Missouri: St. Louis Zoo, St. Louis
An adventure is always just around the corner at this wow-worthy spot. Whether you’re into snakes or tortoises, apes, or antelopes, you’ll find something to get excited about here. The best part? Admission is free!

Government Dr.
St. Louis, MO
Online: stlzoo.org

26. Montana: Grizzly & Wolf Discovery Center, West Yellowstone
It’s not strictly a zoo, but this educational spot is perfect for anyone eager to learn about animals. It’s a nonprofit wildlife park where you’ll have the chance to see grizzlies and wolves in their natural habitat. The grizzly bears are brought to the center when they’re unable to survive in the wild, while the wolves come from captive-born, unplanned litters.

201 S. Canyon St.
West Yellowstone, MT
Online: grizzlydiscoveryctr.org

photo: Lianna N. via Yelp

27. Nebraska: Henry Doorly Zoo, Omaha
In a single day at Henry Doorly Zoo, you can see giraffes and elephants in the African Grasslands, meet meerkats and rattlesnakes under the Desert Dome and explore the Lied Jungle alongside monkeys and macaws, then cool off on an Alaskan-themed splash pad (And that’s just scratching the surface.).

3701 S. 10th St.
Omaha, NE
Online: omahazoo.com

28. Nevada: Lion Habitat Ranch, Henderson
Next time you’re in Las Vegas, take a detour to the Lion Habitat Ranch. At this hidden gem spot, you’ll have the chance to see a giraffe (who also happens to be an artist) and lions. For an additional fee, you can even feed the animals yourself.

382 Bruner Ave.
Henderson, NV
Online: lionhabitatranch.org

29. New Hampshire: Charmingfare Farm, Candia
Your whole crew will love spending the day at Charmingfare Farm, home to many traditional agricultural animals you would expect to see on a farm. You’ll find alpacas, goats, sheep, owls, and more. In addition to exploring the petting area, little ones can go on pony and tractor rides.

774 High St.
Candia, NH
Online: visitthefarm.com

30. New Jersey: Cape May County Park & Zoo, Cape May Court House
From cheetahs to red pandas to river otters, there are lots of cool animals to watch out for at this kid-approved spot. After you’ve seen the critters, fuel up at the Safari Cafe, scale the rock climbing wall, and ride a replica mini train. This Jersey gem is free, but donations are accepted to help keep it running.

707 Rte. 9 N.
Cape May Court House, NJ
Online: cmczoo.com

photo: Jodi R. via Yelp

31. New Mexico: Albuquerque Biological Park Zoo, Albuquerque
Located next to the Rio Grande, the Albuquerque Biological Park Zoo offers 64 acres of exotic and native animals, including snow leopards, giraffes, cheetahs, and orangutans. You’ll have the chance to touch alpacas and llamas, watch crocodile feedings and zoom down the zip line.

903 10th St. SW
Albuquerque, NM
Online: cabq.gov/culturalservices/biopark

32. New York: Bronx Zoo, New York
Make a day of it at the Bronx Zoo, where you’ll be able to see sea lions, baboons, lions, and lots more interesting animals. You can also catch a 4-D movie, watch penguin feedings, take a ride on the monorail, and get a giraffe’s-eye view via a cool climbing structure.

2300 Southern Blvd.
Bronx, NY
Online: bronxzoo.com

The zoo in Asheboro is one of the best zoos in the US
photo: North Carolina Zoo via Yelp

33. North Carolina: North Carolina Zoo, Asheboro
Animal lovers will have a blast exploring the North Carolina Zoo, from the zebras and elephants in the African exhibits to the aviary filled with more than 3,000 tropical plants and dozens of exotic birds. After you’ve seen the animals, you can hop aboard a paddle boat or take on the ropes course.

4401 Zoo Pkwy
Asheboro, NC
Online: nczoo.org

34. North Dakota: Dakota Zoo, Bismarck
At the Dakota Zoo, you’ll have the chance to see animals from around the world, including grizzly bears, alligators, monkeys, and porcupines. But that’s not all—be sure to check out their special events, from educational day camps to wine tastings.

600 Riverside Park Rd.
Bismarck, ND
Online: dakotazoo.org

photo: Joe E. via Yelp

35. Ohio: Columbus Zoo, Columbus
The Columbus Zoo will take you on a trip around the world, minus the passport. Go on a quest to Asia and learn about animals facing the threat of extinction, see kangaroos and lorikeets from the land down under, and hop over to Africa to hang out with zebras and gazelles.

4850 W. Powell Rd.
Powell, OH
Online: columbuszoo.org

36. Oklahoma: Oklahoma City Zoo, Oklahoma City
During your visit to the Oklahoma City Zoo, you can watch a pygmy hippo swim in his pond, feed colorful lorikeets, and explore a forest filled with snow leopards, tigers, and bobcats. Once you’ve gotten your fill of the animals, take a stroll through the lush botanical gardens.

2101 NE 50th St.
Oklahoma City, OK
Online: okczoo.org

photo: Lauren C. via Yelp

37. Oregon: Oregon Zoo, Portland
At the Oregon Zoo, you’ll get to see black bears climbing Douglas fir trees, river otters frolicking in a mountain stream and cheetahs on the prowl. There’s also a family farm where you can get close to goats and chickens, plus outdoor concerts during the summer. And that’s not all—click here for our ultimate guide to getting the most out of your visit.

4001 SW Canyon Rd.
Portland, OR
Online: oregonzoo.org

38. Pennsylvania: Philadelphia Zoo, Philadelphia
Home to nearly 1,300 animals, many of which are rare or endangered, the Philadelphia Zoo is all about educating visitors on animal and environmental conservation. You’ll be wowed by the Zoo360 Animal Exploration Trails, which allow critters to roam around and even above the zoo’s grounds.

3400 W. Girard Ave.
Philadelphia, PA
Online: philadelphiazoo.org

The roger williams zoo is one of the best zoos in the us
photo: Melissa K. via Yelp

39. Rhode Island: Roger Williams Park Zoo, Providence
At this family-favorite spot, you’ll have the opportunity to follow in Marco Polo’s footsteps (and see red pandas and snow leopards along the way), and see native wildlife as you stroll through Rhode Island’s most endangered habitat, the wetlands.

1000 Elmwood Ave.
Providence, RI
Online: rwpzoo.org

40. South Carolina: Riverbanks Zoo & Garden, Columbia
Your day at Riverbanks Zoo & Garden will be anything but boring—to start, you’ll get to see baboons, ostriches, koalas, Komodo dragons, and lots more animals. Bring your swimsuits along and take a detour in Waterfall Junction, a new area with lots of space to splash around and play.

500 Wildlife Pkwy
Columbia, SC
Online: riverbanks.org

41. South Dakota: Reptile Gardens, Rapid City
Founded in 1937, Reptile Gardens is now the largest reptile zoo in the world. You’ll find snakes, crocodiles, turtles, and lizards, along with amphibians and bugs—so it’s perfect for kids who love learning about creepy crawlies.

8955 US-16
Rapid City, SD
Online: reptilegardens.com

photo: David M. via Yelp

42. Tennessee: Memphis Zoo, Memphis
At the Memphis Zoo, you can explore a (Komodo) dragon’s lair, watch pelicans splash around in a pool, watch lemurs play, and more. Be sure to check out their daily schedule to catch zookeeper chats, elephant feedings, and animal shows.

2000 Prentiss Pl.
Memphis, TN
Online: memphiszoo.org

43. Texas: Houston Zoo, Houston
With over 6,000 animal residents, there’s no shortage of critters to see and interact with at the Houston Zoo. In addition to seeing sea lions, elephants, and jaguars, you can feed piranhas, join keepers on a dingo walk and get up close and personal with red pandas. Wondering what else there is to do in Houston? Check out our guide to the city

6200 Hermann Park Dr.
Houston, TX
Online: houstonzoo.org

photo: Mike N. via Yelp

44. Utah: Tracy Aviary, Salt Lake City
Bird watchers will have a field day at this small but mighty aviary in Salt Lake City. You’ll see pelicans, bald eagles, cranes, parakeets, and lots more feathered friends. The aviary also offers cool events, from family yoga sessions to up-close bird encounters.

589 E. 1300 S.
Salt Lake City, UT
Online: tracyaviary.org

45. Vermont: Vermont Institute of Natural Science Nature Center, Quechee
At this kid-friendly spot, you’ll find 117 state-of-the-art raptor enclosures that house hawks, eagles, falcons, owls, and other birds of prey. Before your visit is over, venture into the woods on one of the institute’s nature trails.

149 Natures Way
Quechee, VT
Online: vinsweb.org

photo: Carissa K. via Yelp

46. Virginia: Virginia Zoo, Norfolk
Become a world traveler for the day. Follow the Trail of the Tiger through Asia to see red pandas and tiger cubs, hop over to Australia to get a look at kangaroos and wallabies, and visit Africa to discover rhinos, tortoises, and cheetahs.

3500 Granby St.
Norfolk, VA
Online: virginiazoo.org

47. Washington: Woodland Park Zoo, Seattle
This is where you’ll have the chance to get close to more than 1,100 animals and 300 species, including some of the world’s most critically endangered. See penguins, meerkats, sloths, and lots more critters, and learn important steps you can take to help fight animal extinction. Click here to check out more of our favorites in the Seattle area.

5500 Phinney Ave. N.
Seattle, WA
Online: zoo.org

The National Zoo is one of the best zoos in the US
photo: Amy N. via Yelp

48. Washington D.C.: Smithsonian’s National Zoo, Washington D.C.
Always free of charge and open 364 days a year, the Smithsonian’s National Zoo is a must-visit whether you’re a local or just in D.C. for vacation. In addition to sightings of giant pandas, elephants, and lions, you can watch animal feedings, meet zookeepers, and dip your toes in the tide pool. Get the inside scoop on how to get the most out of your visit by clicking here.

3001 Connecticut Ave., NW
Washington, D.C.
Online: nationalzoo.si.edu

49. West Virginia: Oglebay Good Zoo, Wheeling
Make a day of it at the Oglebay Good Zoo, where you can explore the Outback Exhibit and Lorikeet Landing, and observe a cheetah, lemurs, red pandas, river otters, and more animals. Rest your legs by taking the C.P. Huntington Train Ride on a one-and-a-half-mile journey through the grounds.

465 Lodge Dr.
Wheeling, WV
Online: oglebay.com/activities/good-zoo

photo: Rebecca M. via Yelp

50. Wisconsin: Henry Vilas Zoo, Madison
You’ll have a wildly fun time at the Henry Vilas Zoo, a free-admission spot that your whole crew will love. Walk through a rainforest aviary filled with tropical birds and fish, ooh and ahh at lions and tigers, and watch super smart orangutans monkey around.

702 S. Randall Ave.
Madison, WI
Online: vilaszoo.org

51. Wyoming: Kindness Ranch Animal Sanctuary, Hartville
Kindness Ranch is a 1000-acre ranch that takes in and rehabilitates animals that have previously been used in laboratory research, including dogs, cats, horses, pigs, and sheep. Be sure to make an appointment in advance to visit the ranch; there are also overnight stays and volunteer opportunities available.

854 State Hwy 270
Hartville, WY
Online: kindnessranch.org

 

 

 

What’s better than a video game that your kids can play over and over again? A membership to one of the many exciting places in Seattle that your kids visit over and over again (for a year at least). From hands-on museums and pop culture excitement, to the great outdoors and live encounters with wild animals, we’ve put together a definitive list of all the good places that families like to visit (and linger) many times over. Read on for our top picks.

photo: Sunshine M. via Yelp

Indoor & Outdoor Fun

Woodland Park Zoo
In an informal poll, the Woodland Park Zoo was the most highly sought after membership by families in the Seattle area, and for good reason: there’s something for everyone! In addition to the hundreds of animals found throughout the 92 acres that make up the zoo, there are plenty of outdoor spaces to run around (including playgrounds) if you get tired of looking at animals, an indoor play space known as Zoomazium, excellent educational opportunities, a restored 1918 carousel, gift shops and large indoor food court. Membership benefits include half-price guest admissions, early access to special events and more.

Woodland Park Zoo
601 N. 59th St.
Seattle, Wa 98103
206-5428-2500
Online: zoo.org

Open: Daily, 9:30 a.m.-4 p.m. (extended hours during the spring & summer)
Annual Membership: $69/Flexible Guest Adult; $49/Named Adult; $19/Child; Under 2 Free

Point Defiance Zoo and Aquarium
Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium is the only combined zoo and aquarium in the Pacific Northwest spread out over 29 acres. Next to Mount Rainier, it is the #2 tourist destination in Pierce County. While your kids may not be impressed with those facts, they will enjoy getting up close and personal to the live sharks, riding a camel and exploring the interactive Kids’ Zone. Combo membership benefits includes free admission to Northwest Trek Wildlife Park in Eatonville.

Point Defiance Zoo and Aquarium
5400 N. Pearl St.
Tacoma, Wa 98407
253-591-5337
Online: pdza.org

Open: Daily, 9:30 a.m.-4 p.m. (extended hours in the spring & summer)
Annual Membership: $124/Household (two adults and all children); $100/One Plus One (two members)

photo: Maria P. via Yelp

Seattle Aquarium
For city-dwellers along the sea, a membership to the Seattle Aquarium is sure to instill a life-long love of all the cuddly and prickly creatures that live in the briny depths off our shore. The Aquarium is particularly great for the pre-k crowd as well as any budding environmentalists in your family who want to learn more about conservation efforts that affect the waters in the Pacific Northwest. Membership benefits include early admissions to the aquarium on select days (which means you get the place all to yourself!), two half-price guests admissions with every visit and 10% off on all gift shop and cafe purchases.

Seattle Aquarium
1483 Alaskan Way
Seattle, Wa 98101
206-386-4300
Online: seattleaquarium.org

Open: Daily, 9:30 a.m.-5 p.m.
Annual Membership: $189/Family Plus (2 adults, 5 children, 1 guest); $149/Family (2 adults, 5 children)

Museum of Flight
For a city full of kids who have parents skilled in engineering, aeronautics, technology and adventure-travel, the Museum of Flight is the perfect place to unleash those great little minds to dream big about the wide world. With all sorts of planes that you can see, touch and climb inside, this museum fulfills the Seattle requirements of being both a super cool (and educational) place to get your wiggles out, as well as being indoors which is an added bonus when you want to take the your WWII history-buff Gramps out for a weekend adventure, but it’s pouring cats and dogs. Upgrade to an “Aviator Membership” to get free admission for kids under 18, and four free one-time guest passes.

Museum of Flight
9404 E. Marginal Way S.
Seattle, Wa 98108
206-764-5700
Online: museumofflight.org

Open: Daily, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.
Annual Membership: $100/Family; $75/Two Adults

CityPASS
Although usually marketed for tourists, if you are new to town, or want to try out a bunch of spots before committing to a full year’s membership…or if you just want to cram as much adventure as possibly into your kids’ Winter Break, consider getting your family a CityPASS. Valid for over a week once you start to use it (9 days to be exact), your CityPASS will give you access to a day/night Space Needle pass, the Seattle Aquarium and an Argosy Cruise around the Seattle harbor. Plus you’ll also get a choice of attending the MoPOP (Museum of Pop Culture) or the Woodland Park Zoo and a choice of the Chihuly Garden and Glass or the Pacific Science Center. Phew! Whirlwind mandatory fun begins now!

CityPASS
Buy online: citypass.com/seattle

Cost: $79/Adults (13 & up); $59/Kids (4-12)

photo: Pexels

Outdoors-y Fun

Parks & Forests
If you’re like most Northwest-y families, a Discover Pass is probably already on your “must get” list each summer, as it is your year-long ticket to the great outdoors and all of Washington’s state parks and recreation lands. If you and your family are already avid hikers, campers,  snowshoers, bird-watchers or beach-goers (or maybe this year is finally the year you commit to getting outside more), why not get your Discover Pass early and start planning a super-fun winter excursion or your camping trips for spring. Check out the Northwest Forest Pass for easy year-round access to all of Washington and Oregon’s National Forest lands. Or surprise your family with a multi-state road trip this summer and get them the Annual National Park Pass.

Discover Pass: $30/car ($35 if purchased online or by phone)
Buy online: discoverpass.wa.gov

Annual Northwest Forest Pass: $30/car
Buy online: discovernw.org/store

Annual National Park and Federal Recreation Land Pass: $80/car
Buy online: discovernw.org/store

photo: The Center for Wooden Boats 

The Center for Wooden Boats
For a city on the Sound, and surrounded on all sides by lakes and waterways, we’re lucky to have boats and ships (and sea planes!) galore to gaze at as well as to adventure out on. If you have a budding sailor (or pirate!) in your midst, then a membership to The Center for Wooden Boats will be sure to delight. Membership gives you 20-40% off of boat and canoe rentals at the CWB, so if you’re an experienced rower or sailor you can get underway right away. If you’re new to boating (or boat making), membership also provides up to $250 off of some of their amazing classes and workshops (including ones just for young people like kayak building or paddle carving, or how about a family sailing class?). Ahoy, Matey!

The Center for Wooden Boats
1010 Valley St.,
Seattle, Wa 98109
206-382-2628
Online: cwb.org

Open: Tues.-Sun., 10 a.m.-5 p.m. (during the winter); open until 8 p.m. in spring/summer
Annual Membership: $75/household (everyone at the same mailing address)

Bloedel Reserve
If you’re looking for a civilized tradition for your family walks and want to add some culture to your outdoor exploration, consider frequenting the Bloedel Reserve. Just a stone’s throw (OK, a ferry ride and a quick drive…) away from downtown Seattle, the Bloedel Reserve offers a spectacular amount of botanical eye-candy in the form of formal gardens, wooded trails, tranquil vistas and delightful Asian and Colonial architecture. Truly a wonderful day trip (pack your picnic!) and great place to take out-of-town guests—you’ll leave the Bloedel Reserve wondering why it took you so long to get back there.

Bloedel Reserve
7571 N.E. Dolphin Drive,
Bainbridge Island, Wa 98110
206-842-7631
Online: bloedelreserve.org

Open: Tues.-Sun., 10 a.m.-4 p.m.
Annual Pass: $135/Family (six members); $100/Family (four members); $75/Dual (two members)

photo: Ed U. via Yelp

Seattle Japanese Garden
Perfect for families with strollers or other mobility issues, as many of the paths are paved or nicely graveled, the Japanese Garden is a little closer to the city. Although smaller in size than the Bloedel Reserve, Seattle’s Japanese Garden has a spectacular offering of seasonal flowers and trees. Its meticulous maintenance might make you feel guilty about your own yard, but it is also the perfect spot for a serene moment with your family and to honor the connection that the Northwest has to Japan and Asia. This is also an amazing membership idea is you have any budding photographers in your crew.

Seattle Japanese Garden
1075 Lake Washington Blvd. E.
Seattle, Wa 98112
206-684-4725
Online: seattlejapanesegarden.org

Open: Hours vary depending on month. (Closed Dec.-Apr.). Check website for admission times.
Annual Pass: $30/Family (two adults & children)

Northwest Trek
Although a little out-of-the-way for those north of downtown, Northwest Trek is a dream-come-true for any family that is enamored with the call of the wild. Admission includes a narrated tour through the park in the tram (open-windowed, heated buses so you can get up close and personal with the animals) where you can see elk, moose, bighorn sheep and bison in their natural(-ish) environment. Then, take a walk through their awesome zoo where you’ll see grizzly bears, wolves and cougars, along with many other native-to-the-Northwest species. There’s also the Discovery Center where you can get some hands-on learning about local animals and Kid’s Trek, an awesome playground where everyone can burn off the crazies. And although not included in the membership price, Northwest Trek also has outrageous zip lines and ropes courses for kids ages six and up that you’ll certainly want to add into your plans. A fun membership advantage is that Trek members also get 20% off admission to the Point Defiance Zoo and Aquarium in Tacoma.

Northwest Trek Wildlife Park
11610 Trek Dr. E.,
Eatonville, Wa  98328
360-832-6117
Online: nwtrek.org

Open: Fri.-Sun., 9:30 a.m.-3 p.m. (Additional weekday hours vary depending on the month. Check the website for admission times). Closed holidays.
Annual Membership: $125/Household (two adults & children under 18); $100/Dual (two adults)

Photo: KidQuest Children’s Museum

Families with Tiny Tots

Children’s Museums
Whomever decided it was a good idea to create museums just for kids and families has earned a well-deserved spot in the Great Ideas Hall of Fame. These play-based learning centers are full of hands-on, interactive exhibits that will keep your kiddos entertained for hours and serve as an awesome gathering place for groups of families looking to get out together. If you have toddlers in your life, an annual membership may just be the best money you ever spent. You’ll be surprised by how much fun you’ll have building forts in Seattle’s Children’s Museum, playing in the water at KidsQuest Children’s Museum in Bellevue, exploring the giant tree house or planting a carrot patch at the Hands On Children’s Museum in Olympia or digging for dinosaur bones on the Tall Timbers Rooftop Adventure at the Imagine Children’s Museum in Everett.

Seattle Children’s Museum
305 Harrison St.,
Seattle, Wa 98109
206-441-1768
Online: thechildrensmuseum.org

Open: Mon.-Fri., 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sat.-Sun., 10 a.m.-6 p.m.
Annual Membership: $85/Family (one adult & one child); $20/Additional Adult or Child; $18/Additional Grandparent

KidsQuest Children’s Museum
1116 108th Ave. NE.
Bellevue, Wa 98004
425-637-8100
Online: kidsquestmuseum.org

Open: Tues.-Thurs., 9 a.m.-5 p.m.; Fri., 9 a.m.-8 p.m.; Sat. 9 a.m-5 p.m.; Sun., noon-5 p.m.
Annual Membership: $95/Family (one adult & one child); $30/Additional Adult or Child

Hands On Children’s Museum
414 Jefferson St. N.E.
360-956-0818
Online: hocm.org

Open: Tues.-Sat., 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sun.-Mon., 11 a.m.-5 p.m.
Annual Membership: $175/Deluxe (two adults and children + two guests); $145/Basic Family (two adults & children); $105/One Plus One (one adult & one child). Other options are available.

Imagine Children’s Museum
1502 Wall St.
Everett, Wa 98201
425-258-1006
Online: imaginecm.org

Open: Tues.-Wed., 9 a.m.-5 p.m.; Thur.-Sat., 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sun., 11 a.m.-5 p.m.
Annual Membership: $130/Household (two adults & children); $90/Two Fun (one adult & one child)

photo: Romp

Pay-to-Play Cafés
If you happen to be one of the many (many) parents in the Seattle area with a caffeine addiction, for whom a home-brewed cuppa Joe just won’t do, and/or who finds yourself making play dates at coffee houses just so that your kiddos can go get someone else’s play space all messy while you enjoy your latte, then it’s probably time to invest in a membership to one of the lovely pay-to-play cafés in town. Play Date Sea in Seattle offers 8,000 sq. feet of play space for the kids (including an interactive dance floor, climbing walls and lots of places to crawl and explore) and a nice cafe that offers inexpensive kids meals, snacks a large beverage menu for mom dad. ROMP in Bellevue has a light and modern ambiance, and a full kitchen for you to use (or great order-in options, too). For the little ones, there’s a large, active-play area, as well as ample space for your kiddos to do everything from paint a masterpiece to build forts to play dress-up. The Play Happy Cafe in Lynnwood is designed for kids ages 0-6 (and their favorite adults who can hang out in the cafe enjoying delicious food and free WiFi).

ROMP
13500 Bel-Red Road, Suite 7
Bellevue Wa, 98005
425-748-4497
Online: romp.com

Open: Mon.-Tues., 9:45 a.m.-5 p.m.; Wed. 9:45 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Closed Thurs.-Sun.
Membership: $98/month for Blue Level (one child full-time access + classes); $75/month for Yellow Level (one child a.m./p.m. access but no classes); $60/month for Red Level (one child morning and afternoon only). $50 registration fee. Additional children add $15-$30.

PlayDate SEA
1275 Mercer St.
Seattle, Wa, 98109
206-623-7529
Online: playdatesea.com

Open: Sun.-Thurs., 9 a.m.-8 p.m., Fri.-Sat., 9 a.m.-9 p.m.
Membership: $188/25 visits for Royal Player Pass (age 4 & up); $88/10 visits for Player Pass (age 4 & up); $94/25 visits for Royal Toddler Pass (age 3 & under); $44/10 visits for Toddler Pass (age 3 & under).

Play Happy Cafe
4114 198th St. S.W., Suite 3
Lynnwood, Wa, 98036
425-582-7007
Online: playhappycafe.com

Open: Mon.-Thurs., 9 a.m.-4 p.m.; Fri., 9 a.m.-8 p.m.; Sat.-Sun., 10 a.m.-4 p.m. (Closed on weekends during the summer)
Membership: $180/20 visits; ($135 for sibling); $135/10 visits ($72 for sibling)

photo: Sunshine Music Together

Music Classes
Toddlers and little kids love to sing and shout and shake their “groove thangs.” If your little sweetie belts out the “Wheels on the Bus” every time you get in the car or turns everything into a drum, it’s probably time to check out the vast array of music classes offered in our area. There are classes for every age, in every neighborhood, every single day of the week. So whether you’re home with the kiddos and need something to fill that pre-nap gap on Wednesday mornings, or you want to spend some quality weekend time learning songs for your next road trip, our guide to kids music classes around Seattle is sure to find a winner that fits your family. (Note: While not truly a “membership,” these classes are usually offered in sessions lasting between 9-15 weeks and are an awesome way to jump-start the year with a little family fun.)

Families with Older Kids

Pacific Science Center 
Whether you’re a science buff, a sucker for IMAX movies or just love the butterfly house, the Pacific Science Center is a Seattle mainstay for indoor fun no matter your age. With amazing new exhibits each year the Science Center always has something mind-expanding to offer its visitors. Members also get access to free laser and planetarium shows year-round as well as a number of free IMAX and guest passes to the Science Center.

Pacific Science Center
200 Second Ave. N.
Seattle, Wa 98109
206-443-2001
Online: pacificsciencecenter.org

Open: Mon.-Fri., 10 a.m.-5 p.m. (closed Tuesdays); Sat.-Sun., 10 a.m.-6 p.m.
Annual Membership: $125/Family (up to eight members); $98/Dual (two members—one must be an adult)

Photo: Ren G. via Yelp

Emerald City Trapeze Arts
For something completely different, why not jump on the flying trapeze with your kids?! If you’ve got tweens or teens (or even elementary school kids) who are showing the signs of being early adrenaline junkies, Emerald City Trapeze Arts is a great way to indulge their desire to jump from extreme heights in (relative) safety and to learn from the pros! Memberships at Emerald City can get pretty pricey (up to $8,800/year), but they also offer monthly membership and a variety of classes, however too many to list here. Just imagine the pictures you could take for your Christmas card next year!

Emerald City Trapeze Arts
2702 6th Ave. S.
Seattle, Wa 98134
206-906-9442
Online: emeraldcitytrapeze.com

Open: Class times and days vary. See website for details.
Annual Membership: $4,400-$8,800
Monthly Membership: $400-$849

photo: Sari Marissa G. via Yelp

Museums That Inspire, Delight & Educate
If you’re aching for some inspiration to get your creative juices flowing, or if that trip to Europe didn’t pan out and you need an excuse to inject some culture into your family’s world, an annual membership to the Chihuly Garden and Glass Museum or to the Seattle Art Museum  are sure to fit the bill.

Chihuly Garden and Glass Museum
The Glass Museum is dazzlingly eye-popping, and also a sure fire way to start discussions about “What is art?” Watch the gardens come and alive and change throughout the year and just take in all of the color. Members enjoy special access to new exhibits as well.

Chihuly Garden and Glass Museum
305 Harrison St.,
Seattle, Wa 98109
206-753-4940
Online: chihulygardenandglass.com

Open: Sun.-Thurs., 11 a.m.-6 p.m.; Fri.-Sat., 11 a.m.-7 p.m.
Annual Membership: $220/Family (two adults & up to four children)

Seattle Art Museum (SAM)
SAM’s permanent exhibits are so nicely curated that you can visit them again and again and always find something new to inspire you. The visiting exhibits are world-class; you’ll make a special visit just to check them out. There’s also fun kid spaces in the museum that will give your young Monets the opportunity to finally get their hands on some of the art-sy goodies. Membership at SAM will also get you into the Seattle Asian Art Museum.

Seattle Art Museum
1300 1st Ave.
Seattle, Wa 98101
206-654-3100
Online: seattleartmuseum.org

Open: Wed.-Sun., 10 a.m.-5 p.m. (open Thurs. until 9 p.m.)
Annual Membership: $109/Family (two adults & all children); $99/Dual (two members)

 

photo: Natalia Dotto Photography

Museum of History and Industry
MOHAI in South Lake Union is a wonderful indoor activity for families with kids of all ages, but the membership program is particularly great for families with older kids since children under 14 are free. Older kids will enjoy some of the more in depth exhibits, like the Bezos Center for Innovation, and adults and grandparents will get a kick out of the uniquely Seattle characters on display like J.P Patches.

Museum of History & Industry (MOHAI)
860 Terry Ave. N.
Seattle, Wa 98109
206.324.1126
Online: mohai.org

Open: Daily, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Open until 8 p.m. during the first Free Thursday of the month. 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve. Closed on Thanksgiving and Christmas.
Annual Membership: $95/Family (up to two adults & all children under 17)

Washington State History Museum
If history is your thing, the Washington State History Museum in Tacoma is full of cool paraphernalia from the past. For full-on entertainment, membership doubles as admission to the Capital Museum in Olympia as well as the Washington state Historical Society. Score!

Washington State History Museum
1911 Pacific Ave.
Tacoma, Wa, 98402
253-272-9747
Online: washingtonhistory.org

Open: Tues.-Sun., 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Open until 8 p.m. the third Free Thursday of the month.
Membership: $75/Family (up to two adults & all children under 17); $60/Dual (two members)

Burke Museum of Natural History and Culture
Established in 1899, the Burke Museum is the oldest natural history museum west of the Mississippi River and contains more than 16 million artifacts, including the world’s largest collection of spread bird wings. It is located on the campus of the University of Washington.

Burke Museum
17th Ave. N.E. & N.E. 45th St.
Seattle, Wa 98195
206-616-3962
Online: burkemuseum.org

Open: Daily, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.
Annual Membership: $75/Family (two adults & up to four children under 18); $55/Dual (two adults)

photo: S.L. via Yelp

MoPOP (Museum of Pop Culture)
Formerally known as the Experience Music Project, MoPOP still contains lots of artifacts from the Seattle music scene (Including Pearl Jam, Nirvana and Jimmi Hendrix to name a few), but now the museum has expanded its focus to include all forms of popular culture including movies, science fiction, comic books, television, local sports, mythology and lots more. With ever-expanding exhibits, this will be the spot you return to again and again.

MoPOP
325 5th Ave. N.
Seattle, Wa 98109
206-770-2772
Online: mopop.org

Open: Daily, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.
Annual Membership: $125/Family (two adults & up to five children); $89/Dual (two members)

Good to Know: Be sure to check out the membership pages linked above for additional benefits far beyond your year-round entrance fees. Many memberships provide extra perks that add up to tons of savings!

In this age of gift cards and Groupons, a membership or annual pass is the type of out-of-the-box-and-into-the-envelope thinking that will give you a year’s supply of good times for your family. Did we miss your favorite membership? Tell us in the comments below. 

— Jeffrey Totey & Katie Gruver

Portland, get ready to rock – kindie style. Pacific northwest artists, Recess Monkey and Red Yarn, release new albums this month and host super fun concerts to showcase their work. Here’s how you can hear the albums and see the shows to support our local music scene.

photo: Recess Monkey

Recess Monkey
Three Seattle school teacher-musicians, Jack Forman, Drew Holloway and Korum Bischoff are flying high with their 12th studio album release, Hot Air, a 2-disc set with 15 original songs on CD and an animated, magical hot air balloon adventure on DVD. The video features frontman Foreman’s original art, blended with live action pieces and is narrated by actor, Christine Deaver, from Seattle’s Teatro ZinZanni. Together, the story and music explore the concepts of flight, adventure and discovery, as well as everyday occurrences in elementary school kids’ lives, like wearing hand me-downs and hanging out with kids who are different from them.

Recess Monkey’s bouncy, catchy music is totally danceable and gets kids and parents shaking their collective groove thing.Not only that, but the award-winning band has been heralded far and wide for its ability to be completely tapped in to the elementary school kid experience by the likes of People, USA Today, The New York Times and NPR.

Recess Monkey’s trio will be touring all summer, but stopping in Portland on the Hot Air album’s official release date, June 16th. Here’s where to catch them live:

Tues., June 16
3 p.m. Tigard Library, 13500 SW Hall Blvd., Tigard
7 p.m. Tualatin Commons, 8325 SW Nyberg St., Tualatin
Free
Online: recessmonkeytown.com

 

 photo: Red Yarn

Red Yarn
Red Yarn’s new 14-track album, Deep Woods Revival, features foot-tapping, catchy acoustic folk music that makes it completely impossible to sit still while listening. The music is rich and full of vocal harmonies, guitar, banjo, mandolin, fiddle, slide guitar and accordion along with Red Yarn’s engrossing songs about squirrels, grizzly bears, hares, groundhogs and a cross-eyed gopher.

Red Yarn, along with a full band and choir, will perform two shows on Father’s Day at The Old Church to showcase the new album. Here’s where you can check him out:

Sun., June 21
3:30-4:45 p.m. and 5:30-6:45 p.m.
The Old Church
1422 SW 11th Ave.
$8/person advance; $10/person at door; free for babes in arms
Online: redyarnproductions.com

Have you seen these musicians live? What did you think? Let us know in the comments below!

–Suzie Ridgway